The shake-up in the corporate offices of golfing institutions is set to continue as Seth Waugh, CEO of the PGA of America, becomes the latest high-profile figure in golf to tender his resignation.
Following R&A CEO Martin Slumbers, who announced that this would be his final year at the head of the Royal and Ancient back in January, and Keith Pelley, who followed suit the following day and departed the DP World Tour in early April, Waugh, whose contract expires on June 30, announced that he is to step aside and instead take a senior advisory role with the PGA of America.
“I am proud of all that we have accomplished for our more than 30,000 members and the game,” said Waugh in a statement.
“I have enjoyed every moment serving alongside all of my colleagues, all the various officers and board members and getting to know so many of our dedicated members who are on the front line of the game that we love every day of the year.
“The day-to-day game has never been stronger, more beloved or better positioned for the future because of their passion and how we have all worked together to make millions of lives better through our remarkable sport.
“The goal from the start was to leave the room better than we found it and I believe that together we have done just that.”
The PGA’s chief championships officer, Kerry Haigh, will step into Waugh’s shoes as interim CEO whilst the PGA of American search for a suitable successor.
“On behalf of the more than 30,000 PGA of America golf professionals, we are grateful for Seth’s leadership and for all that he accomplished for our members, our game, the business and our people,” said PGA of America president, John Lindert.
“He skillfully led us through incredibly challenging times and was always a great partner.
“We are fortunate to be able to call on him going forward for his always helpful advice and counsel.”